Custer, MI
Population 289 · Michigan
About Custer, MI
Custer is a small community located in Michigan with a population of 289 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $66,875 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Custer features a median home value of $100,000, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Custer one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $738, 37% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 121 total housing units, 88% are owner-occupied (100 units) and 12% are renter-occupied (13 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Custer shows an unemployment rate of 6.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.3%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Custer have an average one-way commute time of 20.5 minutes.
Education & Demographics
8.7% of Custer residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.7% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Custer, MI
Compared to national averages, Custer has a median household income of $66,875 (11% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $100,000, which is 59% below the national median. Monthly rent at $738 is 37% below the US average of $1,163. Within Michigan, Custer's income is 1% above the state average of $66,017, and home values are 45% below the state median of $183,391.
Why Live in Custer, MI?
Custer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $100,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $738/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.3%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.5 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($66,875) that falls below the national average. However, Custer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Custer has a population of 289 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Custer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Michigan.
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Other Cities in Michigan
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Custer
What is the population of Custer, MI?
The population of Custer, MI is 289 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Michigan.
What is the median household income in Custer?
The median household income in Custer, MI is $66,875 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Custer?
The median home value in Custer, MI is $100,000, which is 59% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Custer?
The median monthly rent in Custer, MI is $738, which is 37% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Custer?
The unemployment rate in Custer, MI is 6.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Custer, MI a good place to live?
Custer offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 289 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Custer, MI?
8.7% of residents in Custer aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Custer?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Custer, MI: median home value is $100,000 (59% below national), median rent is $738/month, and median household income is $66,875. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.5x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Custer?
The poverty rate in Custer, MI is 11.3%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Custer, MI?
Custer's population is 0.7% White, 1.4% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.3% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.